As I walked with Bosuro, I noticed that people didn’t pay much attention to the General walking by. They would glance, but never with suspicious eyes. Perhaps it was because I was used to seeing such sights, having tested travelers daily.

Eventually, he led me to a tavern that hadn’t opened yet, and we entered. The interior was eerily quiet, and our footsteps echoed quite loudly.

“—Before we talk, there’s one thing I want to confirm.”

No sooner had he spoken than he suddenly drew his sword.

“I want to confirm your skill… your technique.”

“No matter how partial I am, I don’t possess the kind of sword technique that a General has.”

“Indeed, from the perspective of sword technique, you are among the upper echelon of warriors… but there are many humans with greater skill than you. I should be included among them–“

He closed the distance in one step. The interior of the shop was spacious for dining, but narrow for maneuvering. So, his approach was instantaneous, and a flowing sword strike swiftly bore down on me.

But I instantly defended against it with my drawn sword. At the same time, immediately after realizing that Bosuro had amplified his magic power, I, too, responded by emitting magic power.

The Garuku’s Ribbon wrapped around my arm emitted heat—at the same time, my strike sent Bosuro’s body flying backward.

“–Whoa!”

But Bosuro didn’t lose his balance and braked with his feet. I maintained my sword-swinging stance and looked back at Bosuro.

Eventually,

“…Excellent. The source of your sword’s power, which far surpasses any technique, is your magic power.”

Bosuro sheathed his sword. I also returned my sword to its scabbard and asked Bosuro,

“Did you notice it when we first clashed?”

“The first time, I understood that you possessed the strength to confront my sword head-on. But the next… watching your movement when you parried my sword, I thought. It seems you can clearly see my sword. The next thing I considered was whether your magic enhancement possessed an exceptional power, unlike ordinary people.”

“…That’s correct.”

“How did you acquire that power?”

“Through accumulated effort.”

I wasn’t lying.

“There are many more reasons why I’ve been able to get this far, but…”

“Hmm, it doesn’t seem like something anyone can do. Well, that’s fine. You’re hiding your true abilities because it would be dangerous if the Demon Race found out, right?”

“Yes. We are currently engaged in strategy, but if the amount of magic power is investigated, I don’t know what will happen.”

“In other words, you possess a power so great that it’s unpredictable… a power that would make the Demon Race wary.”

Bosuro said as if confirming. I nodded honestly and said,

“However, showing that in this battle…”

“I understand. Considering the risks if it were revealed… including your companions.”

–At first, I didn’t understand what he meant. But the next moment, I asked for confirmation.

“Um, by any chance–“

“The moment I realized she was alive, I was truly surprised and relieved.”

He was talking about Sofia. Even with her disguise, she had apparently been recognized. However, he was a General who had seen through us before. Perhaps it was natural for him to understand.

“I also don’t intend to expose it to the light of day. I understand that we must still conceal the fact that she is active… but.”

“King Kanan?”

“That’s right. His Majesty was deeply concerned about the Princess. Previously, my cousin, Knight Eina, visited this nation, heard the circumstances, and we discussed cooperating in the recapture of the Barx Kingdom. It was all to save the Princess.”

Then the General looked at me and said,

“But, knowing the fact that she is alive… if possible, I would like to explain the situation confidentially.”

Given that the General is proposing this, Sofia would likely agree to speak with Kanan. However–

“…Just to confirm, is that before or after the battle?”

“Since it’s before the war, I don’t think we should talk about it now.”

“I agree. If we are to discuss the situation, it should be after the coming battle has ended.”

If it’s after the battle, Kanan will have awakened, so there shouldn’t be any problem… As I was thinking that, Bosuro spoke further.

“So, it seems you also have something to discuss.”

Yes.

I nodded… given the situation, I thought it would be alright to make a few requests, so I spoke.

There are two things I’d like to ask. First, regarding how we will be handled…

There are aspects that must be judged based on the war situation, so I cannot make a definitive statement here. However, I will certainly not treat you poorly. Especially because of the Princess.

Understood… then for the second point. Honestly, I think it will be difficult to accept such a request, but…

Please, speak.

It’s about our roles in the war. Is it possible to separate the four of us?

At my question, Bosuro tilted his head. It’s natural that a proposal without reason wouldn’t be accepted. So—

—There is little I can say about myself at this moment. But one thing: I have a prediction about this battle.

Oh, and what is that?

I don’t know what kind of Demon Race or Monsters will attack, but the battle’s structure will likely be to defend the four Castle Gates. And the Knights, including the General, will meet them.

It’s highly probable that it will be so. The Monster invasion is strangely quiet. It’s difficult for us to pinpoint their location, and it’s hard to launch an offensive. The structure should be one of defending the Capital City.

In that situation, the Demon Race might target the Commander leading the Army, including the General, or they might have prepared Monsters specifically to defeat the Commander.

At my words, Bosuro’s eyes narrowed slightly.

Are you saying… there are Monsters whose role is to defeat me?

Yes. The Alastin Kingdom is a small nation territorially, but there are individuals, including the General, whose names are known across the Continent. This time, surely such Knights will serve as Commanders defending the gates, won’t they?

Atire and Shelk were also somewhat talked about among the Knights… Eina mentioned such things when she was the Protagonist in the game.

The Demon Race must understand that as well. Therefore, they might implement a counter-strategy.

…So, you mean to say this?

Bosuro said to me with a look of realization.

That you will protect the Commanders with your abilities?

Yes. You seem to recognize the abilities of my companions. Therefore, if you would allow us to take on such roles… it might be disrespectful to say this to a Knight, but our opponents are the Demon Race. Anything could happen, and I believe preparation is necessary.

I see, I see.

Bosuro spoke, meeting my gaze.

However, I have one question. You’re concerned about so many things… do you have some special feelings for this Town?

—They probably wouldn’t believe me if I said, “I know the outcome of this battle from the game.” And Bosuro doesn’t seem to have figured that out either. Of course not.

I may have an opportunity to tell you about the circumstances someday… but explaining it would be a long story.

Is that so. Given the situation, I won’t pry.

He spoke as if he understood everything. I didn’t answer, but Bosuro continued.

Very well. However, there is one condition.

A condition?

Where each of you will be stationed must, of course, be considered based on the Demon Race’s situation. I would like to be entrusted with how you will move.

This is a perfectly natural request. However, considering Bosuro’s potential death in battle—

…General Bosuro’s location will undoubtedly be where the fiercest fighting is expected. Naturally, the Demon Race will also make appropriate preparations.

It seems you’re worried about me.

If the General is lost, the Army’s morale will significantly drop.

At my remark, Bosuro nodded as if he already knew.

Indeed… Shall we discuss that after the Demon Race’s deployment is clear?

Consulting—it’s strange for the General himself to say that to me… but perhaps my power, combined with my actions with Sofia, has earned me a certain level of trust.

…Understood.

I agreed and left the store. Somehow, the conversation had taken a rather strange turn. Nevertheless, depending on how we proceed, the possibility of saving everyone has suddenly increased. I have to do my best.

And regarding Sofia and the others… surely there would be some mention after meeting with the General—just as I was thinking this, Lefin appeared before my eyes.

Lord Ruon

Huh? Aren’t you with Sofia?

I was the only one who went outside before meeting the General.

Saying that, Lefin met my gaze and spoke.

I think Lord Ruon is also thinking about various things… Would you like to talk for a bit?